This series of ten sessions, developed by the Melton Centre at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, aims to provide an insight into the national psyche through examining poetry and prose written by leading Israeli writers since the state was declared.

We examine Israeli society through the lens of poetry, short stories and a novel. The works are diverse, challenging, at times proud, at times haunting, at times self-critical. Familiarity with Israeli writing enables readers to understand the complexities of Israel through the eyes of Israelis which leads to a greater understanding of the Israeli identity and psyche.

Outcomes

By the end of this course, you should be able to:

examine Israeli society through the lens of poetry, short stories, and the novel The Blue Mountain by Meir Shalev (only to be read by Week 9)